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Elbow to Knee Sit-up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Elbow to Knee Sit-up.

EasyObliques

About this exercise

The Elbow to Knee Sit-up is a core exercise that combines a full sit-up with a cross-body rotation, bringing the opposite elbow toward the knee at the top. It targets the abs and obliques, adding a rotational component to the traditional sit-up for greater core activation.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and hands behind your head
  • Brace your core and curl your torso off the floor, performing a full sit-up
  • At the top of the movement, rotate your torso to bring one elbow toward the opposite knee
  • Hold the rotated position briefly, squeezing your obliques
  • Slowly lower your torso back to the floor under control
  • Alternate the rotating side with each rep or complete all reps to one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Abs

About the Elbow to Knee Sit-up

The Elbow to Knee Sit-up is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.